As we get older, those aches and pains become a little more pronounced and life begins to create some new challenges. For many seniors, schedules become impacted with doctor’s appointments and trips to the pharmacy. If you haven’t tried acupuncture, here are three reasons you should give it a try as it can greatly help some of the greatest health challenges facing seniors today.
Pain Relief
Studies have shown that acupuncture is highly effective at treating chronic pain conditions. For example, rheumatoid arthritis is commonly treated with acupuncture. Of course, the frequency, length, and number of treatments will vary depending on the severity of the condition, but acupuncture has been proven to be a powerful tool in addressing the inflammation common in arthritis, which then relieves the pain, discomfort, and swelling that often comes with the disease.
Acupuncture has been shown to be highly effective at treating back and neck pain as well as neuropathy pain, particularly for those with diabetes. Neuropathy impacts the peripheral nerves of the body, and for those suffering from it, it feels like a tingling or burning sensation in the legs or arms. Acupuncture helps by promoting nerve conduction.
Nutrition/Digestion
Another common health challenge for seniors can come with digestion issues and compromised nutrition. For some seniors, it’s the result of a lifetime of poor dietary choices; for others, it could be the result of a medical condition or the side effects of a particular medication. Some of the digestive orders helped by acupuncture include nausea, diarrhea, bloating, vomiting, peptic ulcer, gastritis, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and epigastric pain, just to name a few.
Your acupuncturist can also be a great resource if you are looking to improve your nutrition and dietary habits. There are herbal remedies your acupuncturist can discuss with you to help you address deficiencies or allergies that could be impacting your diet.
Mental Health
Sadly, many seniors suffer from mental health issues. What’s great about acupuncture is that it recognizes that the body and mind work together; in other words, that emotions can have a physiological effect on the body. In channeling the “qi” or energy, acupuncture can help seniors relax and live in more of an emotional balance. Even the Centers for Disease Control acknowledges acupuncture as a legitimate treatment option for many mental and emotional issues.
Acupuncture can also help seniors who suffer from insomnia, which can trigger depression and anxiety in some. And all without the dangers of becoming addicted to medications or treatment. The scientific literature is full of studies acknowledging how acupuncture has benefited those suffering from mental health challenges by improving mood and aiding relaxation, which could be tied to a neuroendocrine connection.
If you suffer from one or more of these issues, make your appointment today and get back to better health!
But these aren’t the only three health areas where acupuncture can benefit seniors. As more seniors look to take fewer medications and as they embrace a more integrated approach to their health concerns, acupuncture continues to rise in popularity. Acupuncturists can also help seniors deal with concerns ranging from skin care to recovering from illness or medical procedures. Ask your practitioner what they can do for you!
Disclaimer: This article contains general information about health topics and it is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. If you have any questions related to your condition, you should contact your doctor or healthcare provider. If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention.
